Donny Osmond Biography
American singer, actor, television personality, and former teen idol who achieved fame both as a member of the family group The Osmonds and as a solo artist.
Born in Ogden, Utah, Donny Osmond rose to immense fame as a child star in the 1970s with his brothers in The Osmonds. He transitioned to a successful solo career with hits like 'Puppy Love' and 'Go Away Little Girl'. After a career slump in the 1980s, he made a significant comeback with the 1989 hit 'Soldier of Love'. He has also starred in Broadway productions (notably 'Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat'), hosted television shows, and won 'Dancing with the Stars' in 2009. He remains an active performer.
- Donny Osmond was only 5 years old when he joined his older brothers in The Osmonds on 'The Andy Williams Show', launching his career as a child star.
- He experienced intense pressure and scrutiny during his teen idol years, later openly discussing the anxiety and panic disorders he developed as a result.
- His career faced a significant downturn in the 1980s, partly attributed to his clean-cut image clashing with the era's trends. He persevered through years of club performances and smaller roles.
- His 1989 comeback hit 'Soldier of Love' was initially released anonymously by the record label to avoid preconceptions based on his name; radio stations played it heavily before his identity was revealed.
- He co-hosted the popular daytime talk show 'Donny & Marie' (1976-1979) with his sister Marie, solidifying their status as America's favorite sibling entertainers. They later had a successful Las Vegas residency.
- In 2009, at age 51, he won the ninth season of ABC's 'Dancing with the Stars' alongside professional dancer Kym Johnson.